NEURIN Jones has his fingers crossed that he can show experience beyond his years as he embarks on his new role as Calne Town’s player-manager.

The 31-year-old, who has been with the Bremhill View club for 10 years, agreed to step up to the top job after previous manager Simon Gardner took on the role of chairman and says that he’s looking forward to overseeing the fortunes of the Lilywhites.

Jones, who will be assisted by Robbie Fry, has already strengthened his squad with the signings of midfielders Kris Beasley and Lee Himsworth from Devizes Town and defender Nathan Phillimore and striker Liam Brown from Corsham Town.

“I’m only 31 and my wife thinks that I’m too young to be a manager but I’m looking forward to it,” said the Lilywhites player-boss.

“I wasn’t really expecting to do it but I offered to do it so that we kept all of the local players here, rather than get someone from elsewhere.

“I don’t think you realise just how much of your time it takes up until you start doing it. I’ve never managed anywhere before.

“I’ve been the captain for the last two years and I was captain under Jeff Roberts. It’s still giving out orders but there’s a lot more to do because you’re getting a team ready for the weekend.

“We’ve not really lost many players and we’ve managed to get a few in, so hopefully we can have a good season.”

With 21 teams taking part in the Toolstation League First Division, Calne aren’t in action on the opening weekend, with their campaign getting under way at home to local rivals Devizes on Wednesday.

Meanwhile, Wiltshire-based Hills Group has agreed to extend its sponsorship of the club for a fifth year.

Chairman Simon Gardner said: “Hills’ continued support since 2010/11 has been a key contributor in maintaining the heartbeat of this football club.”